Police Social Worker - Job Opportunity at Metra

Chicago, United States
Full-time
Mid-level
Posted: March 2, 2025
On-site
USD 63,396 - 95,094 per year

Benefits

Railroad Retirement Benefits (superior to Social Security)
Comprehensive Healthcare Coverage
Professional Development Support
Career Advancement Opportunities
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility

Key Responsibilities

Deliver crisis intervention services across six-county transit region
Provide stabilization support for unhoused individuals within transit system
Coordinate victim services and trauma response
Build and maintain partnerships with social service organizations
Develop and implement intervention strategies for at-risk individuals
Serve as liaison between law enforcement and social services
Conduct risk assessments and mental health evaluations
Manage complex cases requiring multi-agency coordination

Requirements

Education

Master's degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or related field

Experience

Minimum of two years in social services setting

Required Skills

Crisis intervention and counseling techniques Interactive theories and principles application Legal terminology knowledge Microsoft 365 proficiency Strong organizational and analytical abilities Excellent verbal and written communication Problem-solving capabilities Root cause analysis Relationship building Decision-making under pressure Empathy and emotional intelligence

Certifications

Licensed Social Worker (LSW) or Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) Valid driver's license
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

Transit systems nationwide are increasingly integrating social services with law enforcement, reflecting a broader shift toward comprehensive public safety approaches Growing focus on mental health crisis response in public transportation systems indicates expanding role for social workers in transit security Increased emphasis on homeless outreach and intervention in transit systems reflects larger urban housing challenges Rising demand for trauma-informed care specialists in public service sectors

Salary Evaluation

The offered salary range aligns with market rates for specialized social work positions in public transit, with potential for advancement to senior roles commanding salaries up to $110,000

Role Significance

Typically part of a specialized unit of 3-5 social workers collaborating with larger police force of 50-100 officers
Mid-level specialist position with significant autonomy and direct impact on public safety and community welfare

Key Projects

Development of crisis intervention protocols for transit system Implementation of homeless outreach programs Creation of inter-agency cooperation frameworks Establishment of emergency response procedures

Success Factors

Strong ability to navigate complex organizational structures spanning multiple jurisdictions Excellence in rapid assessment and intervention in crisis situations Capacity to build and maintain relationships across diverse stakeholder groups Deep understanding of mental health and social service systems

Market Demand

High and increasing demand due to growing recognition of mental health and social service needs in public transportation systems

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Crisis intervention expertise for immediate public safety impact Multi-agency coordination abilities for effective service delivery Trauma-informed care knowledge for victim services Risk assessment capabilities for public safety

Beneficial Skills

Knowledge of public transportation operations Understanding of municipal governance structures Grant writing and program development Public speaking and community education

Unique Aspects

Rare combination of social work and law enforcement environment
Extensive geographic coverage requiring regional expertise
24/7 on-call requirements indicating high-impact role
Railroad retirement benefits offering superior retirement package to standard social security

Career Growth

Typical progression to senior roles within 3-5 years, management positions possible within 5-7 years

Potential Next Roles

Senior Social Services Coordinator Crisis Response Team Leader Social Services Program Manager Director of Community Outreach

Company Overview

Metra

Metra operates one of North America's largest commuter rail systems, serving northeastern Illinois with a comprehensive transportation network

Leading regional transit authority with significant public service impact and stable funding structure
Dominant commuter rail provider in six-county Chicago metropolitan area
Professional environment balancing public service mission with structured organizational processes
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